My brothers and sisters,
This past Friday, as we celebrated the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, I came across this piece from the Diocese of Columbus and want to share an excerpt with our parishioners and friends:
The Church is born from the pierced heart of Jesus and has a mission in the world to proclaim the redeeming love of God in Christ.
In Catholic churches and homes, one of the most popular images of Jesus is the image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is the image of God’s love revealed in the pierced heart of His Son, often depicted with a wounded heart, encircled by a crown of thorns and radiating light. It is the symbol of a love that conquers sin and transcends death, the symbol of the One who loved us to the end.
In the Catholic Church, devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is practiced more intensely throughout the month of June, with the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus celebrated on the Friday of the third week after Pentecost. Practices include praying the Litany of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, making a consecration to the Sacred Heart or having the image of the Sacred Heart enthroned in your home.
When we draw close to Christ in the mystery of his heart, we dwell on the great mystery of our faith, that God is love. This strengthens us and inspires us to imitate his love, helping our hearts learn meekness, humility, mercy, and love, and we are moved to live the great commandments of love of God and neighbor.
We are motivated by the Sacred Heart of Jesus to open our hearts to him so that they are filled with love for our brothers and sisters. In this way, we learn to live Jesus’ commandment: Love one another as I have loved you. – John 15:12
Source: facingforwardcolumbus.org
In all that we do – individually and collectively – may our hearts be configured to the Heart of Jesus and help us to recognize our true identity as beloved daughters and sons. May this Love serve as the root of our every word, action, and silent motivation.
Yours in the Sacred Heart of Jesus,
Fr. Gurnick